Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of undefined - James Sharkey @ Grow Through Life Counseling , AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
James Sharkey @ Grow Through Life Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution Focus Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Family System Theory.
Hello! I enjoy treating: grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, identity development, LGBTQ+, men’s mental health, relationship infidelity, divorce and separation, co- parenting, and communication development. I work with adults, children, teens, families, and couples. I establish a safe and affirming space, tailoring sessions to address diverse needs. I invite clients to explore their own unique journey and I am here to support you through navigating life's challenges in a self-compassionate and healing manner. I am a sensitive and thoughtful provider.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution Focus Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Family System Theory.
Hello! I enjoy treating: grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, identity development, LGBTQ+, men’s mental health, relationship infidelity, divorce and separation, co- parenting, and communication development. I work with adults, children, teens, families, and couples. I establish a safe and affirming space, tailoring sessions to address diverse needs. I invite clients to explore their own unique journey and I am here to support you through navigating life's challenges in a self-compassionate and healing manner. I am a sensitive and thoughtful provider.
(619) 848-1311 View (619) 848-1311
Photo of Andrea Marx, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Marx
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, I assist people with increasing life balance while working towards a mutual, reachable goal, in a nonjudgmental, empathetic way.
The healing process of therapy is a gift that I am passionate about and if you are viewing this, you may have something happening in your life that might benefit from additional, professional support. If that sounds similar to you, you are not alone. My approach will help find deeper meaning and further your own self-understanding.
Using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, I assist people with increasing life balance while working towards a mutual, reachable goal, in a nonjudgmental, empathetic way.
The healing process of therapy is a gift that I am passionate about and if you are viewing this, you may have something happening in your life that might benefit from additional, professional support. If that sounds similar to you, you are not alone. My approach will help find deeper meaning and further your own self-understanding.
(619) 378-7622 View (619) 378-7622
Photo of Harley Quinzel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harley Quinzel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122  (Online Only)
My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy with a warm, inviting, conversational style.
Connection with one’s self and others is everything. However, if you’re faced with internal struggles, like anxiety, or external factors, like life adjustments, this can be a recipe for feeling off-balanced. Together, we'll explore what’s important to you, in order to build insight to your inner struggles and help you foster stronger bonds. As a Black woman, I am passionate about working with BIPOC individuals who may feel the weight of cultural expectations, societal injustices, or struggle with finding their place in the world. My role is to provide a space where these feelings are not just heard but deeply understood and felt.
My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy with a warm, inviting, conversational style.
Connection with one’s self and others is everything. However, if you’re faced with internal struggles, like anxiety, or external factors, like life adjustments, this can be a recipe for feeling off-balanced. Together, we'll explore what’s important to you, in order to build insight to your inner struggles and help you foster stronger bonds. As a Black woman, I am passionate about working with BIPOC individuals who may feel the weight of cultural expectations, societal injustices, or struggle with finding their place in the world. My role is to provide a space where these feelings are not just heard but deeply understood and felt.
(858) 330-1327 View (858) 330-1327
Photo of Cyndi Pulsinelli, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cyndi Pulsinelli
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I practice using evidence-based treatment modalities including EMDR, ERP, DBT and CBT, while cultivating hope through a strengths-based approach.
What does it mean to thrive? The heart of my practice is the very essence of equipping individuals and families to live a life where they thrive. To thrive is a means of growth, to flourish, revive, change-state or turn.
I practice using evidence-based treatment modalities including EMDR, ERP, DBT and CBT, while cultivating hope through a strengths-based approach.
What does it mean to thrive? The heart of my practice is the very essence of equipping individuals and families to live a life where they thrive. To thrive is a means of growth, to flourish, revive, change-state or turn.
(760) 965-3251 View (760) 965-3251
Photo of undefined - Applied DBT Clinicians, PhD, Psychologist
Applied DBT Clinicians
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120
We have attended intensive trainings in DBT given by Dr.
We specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as PTSD, Severe depression, Eating Disorders and the like. We are also well versed in issues of self-harm and frequent hospitalizations
We have attended intensive trainings in DBT given by Dr.
We specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as PTSD, Severe depression, Eating Disorders and the like. We are also well versed in issues of self-harm and frequent hospitalizations
(619) 377-8309 View (619) 377-8309
Photo of Leslie Salas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Salas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
Leslie Salas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2023. Leslie, as a first-generation Mexican American, is passionate about providing mental health support to those who are bilingual or monolingual (Spanish/English). She understands and empathizes with the challenges faced by individuals coming to the United States. Leslie offers Evidence-Based Therapy approaches such as DBT, ACT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Leslie Salas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2023. Leslie, as a first-generation Mexican American, is passionate about providing mental health support to those who are bilingual or monolingual (Spanish/English). She understands and empathizes with the challenges faced by individuals coming to the United States. Leslie offers Evidence-Based Therapy approaches such as DBT, ACT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy.
(858) 585-4744 View (858) 585-4744
Photo of Lauren Thibodeau, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lauren Thibodeau
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
She is also trained in emotionally focused, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, structural family, and self-compassion therapies.
Lauren treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. She works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, she strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs.
She is also trained in emotionally focused, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, structural family, and self-compassion therapies.
Lauren treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. She works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, she strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs.
(657) 214-7701 View (657) 214-7701
Photo of Kristin Whelan, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristin Whelan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
(619) 738-2306 View (619) 738-2306
Photo of Carie Bassett, APCC
Carie Bassett
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I use evidence-based practices to include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy and am committed to ongoing professional development while providing compassionate and effective therapy to each of my clients.
My name is Carie Bassett, and I am a Licensed Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. I chose to change careers after years of working in the Finance Industry because of my deep desire to understand an individual’s emotional processes and ability to heal. I have gained valuable life and educational experience and work with individuals who are experiencing family conflicts, anxiety, depression, and having difficulty navigating through life transitions and stressors. I look forward to being a partner on your journey and assisting you in accomplishing your goals.
I use evidence-based practices to include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy and am committed to ongoing professional development while providing compassionate and effective therapy to each of my clients.
My name is Carie Bassett, and I am a Licensed Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. I chose to change careers after years of working in the Finance Industry because of my deep desire to understand an individual’s emotional processes and ability to heal. I have gained valuable life and educational experience and work with individuals who are experiencing family conflicts, anxiety, depression, and having difficulty navigating through life transitions and stressors. I look forward to being a partner on your journey and assisting you in accomplishing your goals.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Photo of Autumn Phillips, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Autumn Phillips
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
As Founder and Clinical Director of Phillips Medstone, we are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain or psychological distress such as depression, anxiety, PTSD and more. We have excellent providers who specialize in quality care using empirically validated treatment plans. Treatment options may include CBT, DBT, Biofeedback, EMDR and trauma focused care. We look forward to helping you establish care with a therapist who is 'the best fit for your needs.' Languages include English, Spanish and Italian.
As Founder and Clinical Director of Phillips Medstone, we are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain or psychological distress such as depression, anxiety, PTSD and more. We have excellent providers who specialize in quality care using empirically validated treatment plans. Treatment options may include CBT, DBT, Biofeedback, EMDR and trauma focused care. We look forward to helping you establish care with a therapist who is 'the best fit for your needs.' Languages include English, Spanish and Italian.
(619) 332-2429 View (619) 332-2429
Photo of Claire Deierhoi-Clark, PhD, Psychologist
Claire Deierhoi-Clark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Are you tired of having unproductive conflict, feeling unheard, or beating yourself up and striving for perfection? I’m a licensed psychologist with several years of specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). We can use strategies from CBT and DBT to create a linear, targeted treatment plan to help you believe in yourself, ask for what you want and cope in ways that make you feel better about yourself. Or, if you are struggling with intense emotions and finding this is interfering with your relationship, we can use Gottman Couples therapy to help you and your partner reconnect.
Are you tired of having unproductive conflict, feeling unheard, or beating yourself up and striving for perfection? I’m a licensed psychologist with several years of specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). We can use strategies from CBT and DBT to create a linear, targeted treatment plan to help you believe in yourself, ask for what you want and cope in ways that make you feel better about yourself. Or, if you are struggling with intense emotions and finding this is interfering with your relationship, we can use Gottman Couples therapy to help you and your partner reconnect.
(619) 391-2794 View (619) 391-2794
Photo of Nicole Woolf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Woolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
(760) 258-4024 View (760) 258-4024
Photo of B. Andrea Vielma, MA, CA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
B. Andrea Vielma
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CA LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
This may include CBT, DBT, IFS, EFT, EMDR, and more!.
Feeling confused or stagnant....overwhelmed or uncertain about your next steps? It can be challenging to navigate the chaos around us during difficult periods. As a licensed psychotherapist, change agent, and strategic life coach, my goal is to assist individuals in uncovering the underlying reasons behind their challenges. By gaining fresh perspectives and enhancing self-awareness, I help people find their own new insights and an enhanced understanding of themselves. Through a blend of empathy, understanding, and even a great deal of humor, I guide individuals to overcome the barriers to living their best life.
This may include CBT, DBT, IFS, EFT, EMDR, and more!.
Feeling confused or stagnant....overwhelmed or uncertain about your next steps? It can be challenging to navigate the chaos around us during difficult periods. As a licensed psychotherapist, change agent, and strategic life coach, my goal is to assist individuals in uncovering the underlying reasons behind their challenges. By gaining fresh perspectives and enhancing self-awareness, I help people find their own new insights and an enhanced understanding of themselves. Through a blend of empathy, understanding, and even a great deal of humor, I guide individuals to overcome the barriers to living their best life.
(619) 292-0359 View (619) 292-0359
Photo of Katee Zullo (Dual Licensed Ca-Tx), MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katee Zullo (Dual Licensed Ca-Tx)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121  (Online Only)
I utilize a blend of different modalities, primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Do your emotions ever seem out of control? Maybe you’re in a daze, just going through the motions? Do you feel like no one understands you? Sometimes life comes at us fast and we have difficulty catching up. The good news is you no longer have to go through this alone. I’m here to help. I work to create a safe, compassionate environment to explore your thoughts and emotions, while emphasizing the healing nature of our therapist-client relationship.
I utilize a blend of different modalities, primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Do your emotions ever seem out of control? Maybe you’re in a daze, just going through the motions? Do you feel like no one understands you? Sometimes life comes at us fast and we have difficulty catching up. The good news is you no longer have to go through this alone. I’m here to help. I work to create a safe, compassionate environment to explore your thoughts and emotions, while emphasizing the healing nature of our therapist-client relationship.
(442) 276-3580 View (442) 276-3580
Photo of Trishala Bijoy Khandheria, AMFT , MA, MS , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Trishala Bijoy Khandheria
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT , MA, MS
Not Verified Not Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
I am trained in evidence-based practices, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family-based therapy (FBT).
“Treat the patient, not just the disease.” This mantra has always been an inspiration for my practice, as I truly believe that successful therapy is rooted in the positive, working relationships I form with my patients. If you are living with an eating disorder, depression, anxiety, or have family and/or marital issues, life might feel complicated and overwhelming. You may need a safe space to heal, explore yourself, and feel heard. My education & experience as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist has given me the tools to help empower people like you to create positive change and work towards achieving a state of well-being.
I am trained in evidence-based practices, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family-based therapy (FBT).
“Treat the patient, not just the disease.” This mantra has always been an inspiration for my practice, as I truly believe that successful therapy is rooted in the positive, working relationships I form with my patients. If you are living with an eating disorder, depression, anxiety, or have family and/or marital issues, life might feel complicated and overwhelming. You may need a safe space to heal, explore yourself, and feel heard. My education & experience as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist has given me the tools to help empower people like you to create positive change and work towards achieving a state of well-being.
(858) 251-6862 View (858) 251-6862
Photo of Haley Adams, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Haley Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128  (Online Only)
Haley Adams is an LMFT who earned her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from the University of La Verne. She went on to graduate from Pacific Oaks College with a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a specialization in trauma studies. Haley is certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP), and has a strong knowledge of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Haley’s diverse experience includes working with infants, children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings, from residential to outpatient care.
Haley Adams is an LMFT who earned her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from the University of La Verne. She went on to graduate from Pacific Oaks College with a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a specialization in trauma studies. Haley is certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP), and has a strong knowledge of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Haley’s diverse experience includes working with infants, children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings, from residential to outpatient care.
(858) 422-3328 View (858) 422-3328
Photo of Megan Barroso - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, APCC, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Barroso - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appt.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appt.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Photo of Meredith Meyer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meredith Meyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92106
I have received extensive training in DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and continue to utilize these models in my work today. Together, they provide effective strategies for change balanced with mindfulness and acceptance. As a clinician, I aim to provide authenticity and evidenced based practices to ensure that you receive effective and compassionate care. I have experience working with individuals from 13 - 90 years old and enjoy having a diverse case load. In addition to DBT and CBT, I have been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Prolonged Exposure.
I have received extensive training in DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and continue to utilize these models in my work today. Together, they provide effective strategies for change balanced with mindfulness and acceptance. As a clinician, I aim to provide authenticity and evidenced based practices to ensure that you receive effective and compassionate care. I have experience working with individuals from 13 - 90 years old and enjoy having a diverse case load. In addition to DBT and CBT, I have been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Prolonged Exposure.
(760) 317-4539 View (760) 317-4539
Photo of Kira Sweetlove - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kira Sweetlove - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appt.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appt.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Photo of Ian Lowe, PsyD, Psychologist
Ian Lowe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
I also use other approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) as needed.
I work with clients who want change in their lives for the better, but find themselves going in circles with challenges (e.g. anxiety, low mood, lack of confidence, life stressors, feeling disconnected). Our therapy work together helps create new ways of dealing with problems effectively, encourages and empowers clients to live meaningful lives, while attuning to a person’s unique culture and background
I also use other approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) as needed.
I work with clients who want change in their lives for the better, but find themselves going in circles with challenges (e.g. anxiety, low mood, lack of confidence, life stressors, feeling disconnected). Our therapy work together helps create new ways of dealing with problems effectively, encourages and empowers clients to live meaningful lives, while attuning to a person’s unique culture and background
(619) 486-3878 View (619) 486-3878
Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?

The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?

Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?

Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.